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Moderate Intensity Walking May Reduce Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio in Men With Hypercholesterolemia

Hypercholesterolemia
or high cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease. High levels of blood cholesterol contribute to
plaque build-up
and continued damage or blockage of blood vessels.
Lifestyle changes
are sometimes effective in decreasing cholesterol blood levels. Improvement in cholesterol includes decreasing overall cholesterol and increasing high density lipoproteins (HDL) or good cholesterol levels.

Researchers at the University of West of England tested the current physical activity guidelines in its ability to improve cholesterol levels in men with current high cholesterol. The study, published in
Preventative Medicine
, found that the home program made significant changes in
total cholesterol/HDL ratio
and weight.

About the Study

Researchers recruited 67 men with high cholesterol. The men were
randomly
assigned to one of two groups. A
control group
received standard treatment. The trial group was assigned 12 weeks of brisk walking that would use at least 300 kcal each walk.
Cholesterol levels
and weight were taken at the start and end of the trial. At the end of the 12 weeks:

Total cholesterol/HDL ratio was significantly lower in the trial group.

The trial group lost more weight.

A decrease in triglycerides and an increase in HDLs in the trial group was found to be only borderline significant.

There was a 97.6% compliance rate in the walking group.

How Does This Affect You?

Lack of physical activity is a known risk factor for heart disease. The short-term activity program followed here did show some benefit to improving cholesterol scores. The high compliance rate indicates that a basic
walking program
may be easy to manage.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.